The Inland Rail Beaconsfield Parade Bridge Replacement project comprised the demolition of an existing 60-metre rail bridge and delivery of a new 145-metre road over rail bridge, enabling the movement and operations of double-stacked freight trains along the Inland Rail route. The project incorporated design elements to address national heritage sites, and included an active transport shared pathway, lighting and connections to the Glenrowan Heritage Precinct. The project was delivered by McConnell Dowell, with the new Bridge opening to traffic in 2024, and the full project reaching completion in early 2025.
The Judging Panel recognised the complexity of delivering the project within the constraints and considerations of historic township, while maintaining traffic flow and daily community movements. The Panel commended the project’s proactive management of construction impacts, with the Panel emphasising the focus on maintaining social licence throughout delivery. Additionally, the Panel noted the strength of partnership between McConnell Dowell, the Australian Rail Track Corporation, Inland Rail, and local community organisation as a crucial for project’s delivered social outcomes.